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Ever asked, “How was school?” and got a one-word answer like “fine”? You’re not alone. In our latest caregiver webinar, Clayful Coach Success Lead Erika shared practical, compassionate ways to help teens open up—without pressure, lectures, or power struggles.
The recording dives into how parents can create calm, connected spaces that invite conversation instead of shutting it down.
🎥 Watch the full recording below
1. Calm is contagious.
Your nervous system sets the tone. Before tough conversations, pause, breathe, and regulate yourself—because your calm teaches safety faster than your words do.
2. Reuniting rituals matter.
The first few moments after reconnecting (after school, after work) set the tone for the night. Try a quick “I missed you” hug, fist bump, or shared snack before diving into reminders or to-dos.
3. Practice “parallel play.”
Cooking, driving, or folding laundry side-by-side lowers the pressure and invites natural conversation. Teens often open up more when eye contact isn’t required.
4. Get curious—without an agenda.
As our Clinical Supervisor Milena shared, true curiosity isn’t about fixing or steering the conversation; it’s about understanding.
5. Connect before you correct.
Ask one non-task question before bringing up chores or homework. Even a five-minute buffer can transform the energy at home.
Instead of “How was school?” try:
Clayful offers easy, everyday tools for families and schools to strengthen connection and mental well-being.
💬 Clayful for Caregivers – Join our free Back-to-School Reset program: 4 weeks of short, daily texts with tips to lower stress and build calm. Sign up here ›
👂 1:1 Coaching – Chat live with a certified coach between 8 a.m. – 10 p.m. ET. Sign up here >
🧠 For Students – Two free text-based programs:
If your child is under 13, please complete parent consent › so they can access Clayful.
California families: adding insurance info may help your school get Medi-Cal reimbursement for Clayful services.